On behalf of the Board of Trustees, myself, and staff, welcome to the 2013-14 school year in the Los Gatos – Saratoga Union High School District! Our district has a long tradition of excellence, grounded in our belief that every student deserves a high-quality educational experience that meets his or her needs. This is reflected in our commitment to academic excellence, a variety of extra-curricular/co-curricular programs, and extensive support services and programs that foster an environment where students feel connected and thrive.

In spring 2013, both Los Gatos High School and Saratoga High School were recognized again as California Distinguished Schools. This recognition is earned every day, by everyone involved – students, staff, parents and the community that supports us. The district API, CST results, Advanced Placement scores and other measures of academic success speak to the hard work going on in our classrooms and by your students. Last year, we were able to expand options for students by approving the implementation of New Tech at Los Gatos High, beginning August 2013. Our students also continue to excel in other arenas – athletic teams qualify for CCS competitions; students attending CCOC/MetroEd explore Career Technical Education; performing arts and visual arts programs give students opportunities to explore and grow creatively; and students prove every day that they are global citizens through community service, student leadership, peer-to-peer counseling, and leading the charge in “greening” our campuses.

While the economic climate is showing signs of improvement, your support of our first-ever parcel tax, Measure A, in May 2010, continues to provide a key component of our budget - a stable, locally controlled funding source that has allowed us to keep class sizes low and maintain core academic programs and college/career prep programs. The 2013-2014 budget also includes funds to implement the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and improve facilities. Other facility needs are being identified and are included in a facility master plan that will provide direction and vision, with funding coming from community donations, the dissolution of the Redevelopment Agency, and a possible General Obligation, bond currently being discussed.

I am excited by the opportunity to serve you and your student during the coming year! Thank you for your support, involvement and input. Our students are the direct beneficiary of our partnership – it truly does “take a village.”